UWA student Megan Bailey has contributed 100 hours towards a project that looks to shine a light on key issues facing school students in WA through an internship with the Commissioner for Children and Young People (the Commissioner).
Megan, who is studying Biomedical Science with a focus on Population Health, completed the internship through UWA’s McCusker Centre for Citizenship over her semester break.
“I thought [the internship] would be a good opportunity to gain experience in a government organisation where public health research is taking place,” said Megan.
During the internship, Megan examined school students’ experiences and views on safety, mental health, education, community, personal support and more, collected through state-wide student surveys over the past five years.
Megan gained experience in a range of data programs to help provide valuable insights into the key issues facing young people in WA. She created a detailed report of her findings, which was presented to senior staff and received “very positive” feedback.
“Megan was highly efficient and produced a report that will inform future advocacy work and reporting. She was very professional and an excellent communicator,” said internship supervisor Senior Policy Officer Danielle Nockolds.
The internship has helped Megan become an advocate for children’s rights.
“Working at the Commissioner’s office opened my eyes to some of the issues that children face, especially teenage girls, and made me realise that advocating for their rights and interests in all sectors is valuable for the good of the wider community,” said Megan.
Megan recommends the McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship program to other students, especially those looking to gain work experience where they can make a difference in the community.
“The work I did was valuable and worthwhile,” said Megan, “it has given me knowledge that will allow me to become an unofficial advocate for children and young people and speak to others about the importance of advocacy for children as a group.”